GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Diagnostic Fault Information

Important: Always perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle prior to using this diagnostic procedure.

Circuit/System Description

The body control module (BCM) supplies voltage to the audio steering wheel control multiple momentary contact switches and monitors the return signal. Each switch is associated to a set resistance value, when pressed a specific voltage drop occurs through a series of resistors unique to that switch. The BCM identifies the selection, then sends a serial data message that is received by the component controlled, activating the feature.

Diagnostic Aids

    • This diagnostic is for the audio steering wheel controls.
    • Before diagnosis of the steering wheel controls, ensure the primary controls of the associated component are functioning properly.
    • Review schematic when testing switch resistance values.
    • If a single switch function is inoperative, test the suspect switch. Refer to component testing.

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

Steering Wheel Schematics

Connector End View Reference

    •  Steering Wheel and Column Connector End Views
    •  Computer/Integrating Systems Connector End Views

Description and Operation

Steering Wheel Controls Description and Operation

Electrical Information Reference

    •  Circuit Testing
    •  Connector Repairs
    •  Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections
    •  Wiring Repairs

Scan Tool Reference

    •  Scan Tool Data List
    •  Scan Tool Data Definitions

Circuit/System Verification

Ignition ON, observe the BCM data display with the scan tool under Inputs-SWC Bank 1 status. Data displays SW1-SW7 identifying the switch pressed, and Idle when released.

Circuit/System Testing

Caution: Refer to SIR Caution in the Preface section.

  1. Ignition OFF, disconnect the harness connector at the audio steering wheel control switch.
  2. Ignition ON, test for ignition voltage between the ignition circuit terminal 3 and ground.
  3. If less than the specified value, test the ignition circuit for a short to ground or an open/high resistance. If the circuit tests normal, replace the BCM.
  4. Test for 0 volts between the signal circuit terminal 4 and ground.
  5. If greater than the specified value, test the signal circuit for a short to voltage. If the circuit tests normal, replace BCM.
  6. Test for ignition voltage between the ignition circuit and the signal circuit .
  7. If less than the specified value, test the signal circuit for an open/high resistance. If the circuit tests normal, replace the BCM.
  8. Ignition OFF, disconnect the harness connector C1 at the BCM.
  9. Test for infinite resistance between the signal circuit terminal 6 and ground.
  10. If not the specified value, test the signal circuit for a short to ground. If the circuit tests normal, replace the BCM.
  11. If all circuits test normal, test or replace switch.

Component Testing

Caution: Refer to SIR Caution in the Preface section.

  1. Ignition OFF, disconnect the harness connector at the applicable steering wheel control switch.
  2. Test for infinite resistance between the signal terminal 4 and the ignition terminal 3 with the switch in the open position.
  3. If not the specified value, replace the switch.
  4. Test resistance values between the signal terminal and the ignition terminal with the switch closed in each position. Verify readings are approximate to what the schematic reads.
  5. If not the specified value, replace the switch.

Repair Instructions

Important: Always perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

    •  Steering Wheel Control Switch Assembly Replacement
    •  Control Module References for BCM replacement, setup, and programming